How to clean shoes
You've conquered muddy paths and dusty roads, and your shoes have the stories to prove it. Keeping your hiking and walking shoes clean isn't just about looks. It's about making them last longer and keeping your feet protected on the next excursion. So, let's dive into the best ways to take care of your trusty footwear!
Pre-cleaning preparations
Dry-brushing
Start by giving your shoes a good dry-brushing. Grab a soft brush and gently remove any loose dirt and debris from the surface. This step helps prevent dirt from getting smeared around when you apply the cleaning solution.
Take out the laces and insoles
Next, remove the laces and insoles from your shoes. This allows you to clean every nook and cranny without obstructions, and you can give the laces and insoles a separate, thorough cleaning.
Mix a cleaning solution
Now, let's whip up a cleaning solution. Mix a small amount of mild dish soap with warm water in a bowl. This gentle mixture is perfect for tackling dirt and stains without harming your shoes. Or, you can use a specialized shoe cleaner, if you have one available.
Cleaning all parts of the shoes
Washing the shoe laces
Start by soaking your shoelaces in the cleaning solution. This helps loosen up the dirt and grime. After soaking for a few minutes, grab a toothbrush and scrub away. The bristles are perfect for getting into the weave of the laces and removing stubborn dirt.
If you encounter any particularly tough spots, treat them with a baking soda solution – just mix baking soda with a bit of water to form a paste and apply it to the stains. Scrub gently, and rinse thoroughly. Your laces will look as good as new!
Washing the soles
Remove any stones or debris lodged in the tread using a soft toothbrush or toothpicks for those tight spots. This ensures your shoes maintain their grip on various surfaces. Next, scrub the soles with a soft brush and the cleaning solution to remove dirt and grime. This step helps restore the soles' original texture and appearance.
To keep your white soles white, you can mix baking soda with water to a paste and use it with a soft toothbrush on stubborn stains. A melamine sponge (like a Magic Eraser) can also work wonders. Just dampen the sponge and gently rub the affected areas.
Finally, wipe the soles with a soft microfiber cloth to remove any remaining cleaning solution and leave them looking fresh and clean.
Washing the uppers
To clean the uppers of your shoes, start by scrubbing them with a soft brush and the cleaning solution or shoe cleaner. This helps lift dirt and grime without damaging the material. Pay extra attention to stained areas, using a circular motion to lift the dirt effectively.
Once you've scrubbed thoroughly, use a damp cloth to wipe away the cleaning solution, being careful not to soak the material. For stubborn stains, you may need to repeat the process until the uppers are spotless.
Drying and waterproofing
After cleaning your shoes, it's crucial to dry them properly to prevent damage and maintain their shape. Place the shoes in a well-ventilated area to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources that can warp or weaken the materials.
To speed up the drying process and help maintain the shape, insert crumpled newspaper inside the shoes. Replace the newspaper as it becomes damp to ensure maximum moisture absorption.
Once your hiking shoes are completely dry, reapply a waterproofing spray or treatment to restore their water resistance.
FAQs about hiking, trekking, and walking shoes
Can I use a washing machine to clean my shoes?
How do I get rid of shoe odor?
